During pregnancy, many women brace themselves for the uncomfortable realities of labor and delivery. You prepare for potential vomiting, back labor, the possibility of pooping while pushing, tearing, and even the dreaded episiotomy. Ultimately, you brace for what is often deemed “the most excruciating pain of your life.”
One unexpected consequence of labor for me was tailbone pain. (Five bucks if you can pronounce “coccyx” correctly!) After giving birth, the area between your legs becomes a source of immense discomfort, yet my tailbone pain lingered long after other postpartum symptoms faded. Sitting in certain positions—whether slouching, reclining, or lying down—shot sharp pain up my spine. As a new mom, those positions were all too familiar, given the hours spent nursing, pumping, or attempting to catch some sleep. Even simple actions like sneezing or laughing sent jolts through my body (a new twist on the phrase “laughing my ass off”).
Like any millennial mother, I turned to the Internet for answers. While I discovered that tailbone pain is relatively common, the stories I found offered little solace. Women discussed enduring this pain for months or even a year, with no remedy except to allow time for healing. I began to fear I’d be stuck with this discomfort indefinitely.
At my six-week postpartum check-up, I finally mentioned my tailbone pain to my physician. To my surprise, she said, “I’m referring you to postpartum physical therapy.” “Is that even a thing?” I asked, both relieved and intrigued.
Indeed, it is. According to Lucie’s List, the pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles extending from the pubic bone to the tailbone, resembling a hammock that supports vital organs. This area can stretch significantly during childbirth, leading to weakness. In fact, nearly 50% of women experience pelvic floor dysfunction after giving birth.
Pelvic floor therapy, as noted by The Bump, addresses issues such as pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, and bowel problems through various techniques, including manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, and postural adjustments. I initially thought my appointment would only focus on my tailbone, but it turned out to be a comprehensive assessment. Pregnancy and labor affect many bodily functions, from bowel movements to sexual activity. My therapist conducted a thorough examination of my hip and spine alignment, posture, abdomen, and pelvic floor.
Once we addressed the tailbone, I was presented with two options akin to a scene from Friends where a character is faced with a difficult medical choice. I could either allow the therapist to perform an internal adjustment or endure ongoing discomfort. Though uncomfortable, I chose the former because I was desperate for relief.
The therapist revealed that my tailbone was tilted inward. I had assumed it was pushed backward due to the pressure of childbirth, but she theorized it was likely pulled inward during the pushing phase—my legs curled up and knees drawn towards my chest. After the realignment, while I still felt some pain, it was noticeably less severe.
She also assigned me “homework”—kegel exercises. Skeptical, I asked how they could possibly help my tailbone. She explained that strengthening the pelvic floor muscles could alleviate pressure and prevent future injuries. Additionally, she advised me to avoid sitting directly on my tailbone as much as possible, which was challenging as a new mother frequently nursing and trying to rest.
Her suggestions included:
- Keeping the tailbone elevated while seated—using a backward Boppy pillow, a kneeler pad with a cutout, or rolled towels.
- Applying a heating pad while nursing or lying down.
- Opting for firm seating to avoid sinking into softer couches.
- Maintaining an upright posture or leaning slightly forward, avoiding slouching.
I followed her recommendations closely, keeping rolled towels with me wherever I sat. After several sessions, I noticed a gradual reduction in discomfort. By week 15, I realized my tailbone pain was no longer a constant issue. Though I occasionally felt a dull ache, it served as a reminder that recovery from childbirth is a gradual journey.
While I understand that expectant mothers may not want to hear more about potential complications, the reality is that labor can lead to unforeseen physical challenges. If you are encountering similar issues postpartum, consider these tips or consult a pelvic floor PT specialist. You deserve to live free of pain, mamas.
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Summary
Pelvic floor therapy can significantly aid in recovery from childbirth, particularly in addressing unexpected issues like tailbone pain. Through targeted exercises and professional guidance, new mothers can alleviate discomfort and regain normal function.